Community and school programs

The University of Newcastle has a proud tradition of working together with its community including our local and regional schools. Community based programs and research emerge from our core business of teaching and learning. At the same time these connections keep our efforts focused and purposeful
while helping to foster a sense of identity that comes from being part of this unique community.

We believe we are stronger when we work together; therefore the development of mutually beneficial partnerships helping to build strong regional communities is an essential goal of the University's community engagement mission.

With our students and staff as our greatest assets, the University seeks to understand community issues and work with our partners to foster social cohesion and find innovative solutions through education. We aim to establish, build and maintain strong partnerships between the University and our schools
across the Hunter and Central Coast, while developing and supporting opportunities for our primary and secondary students to participate in educational experiences.

AIM High strives to increase the understanding of, and aspiration for, higher education among low socioeconomic status schools and communities by offering a suite of tertiary educations experiences to primary and high school students.

The Family Action Centre works to strengthen families and communities by developing and implementing programs, undertaking research and training, and promoting sustainability, social justice and community leadership.

Friends on Campus is a transition program for high school students in years 10, 11 and 12 who are thinking about studying at university. Students can ask questions and seek advice from senior university students and staff about moving from high school to university. We also provide sessions for parents.

The High Performing Students Program gives exceptional high school students the opportunity to get a 'taste' of tertiary education by undertaking first year university courses while still at school. It provides students with opportunities to fulfil their academic potential, help with career decisions, and can lead to credit for university studies.

Transitioning into training, education and employment are important steps for all students. If you are a person with disability aged 15 to 64, you can receive support with this transition through the National Disability Coordination Officer (NDCO) program.

The Science, Maths and Real Technology (SMART) outreach program offers live, interactive, demonstration based science shows to schools through the University's Equity and Diversity unit and the Faculty of Science and IT.

The University of Newcastle Legal Centre (UNLC) is a community legal service and a teaching facility for law students. The UNLC operates as a community legal centre, providing free legal advice and assistance to members of the community in the Hunter region.

The University's Department of Rural Health focuses on facilitating student placements and learning, enhancing the health of local communities through community projects and conducting research into rural health issues.